Jay Given Killed With Over 400 Witnesses But No Murder Convictions in East Chicago Indiana

Jay Neil Given was a well-known political figure in East Chicago, Indiana. A skilled attorney and influential power broker, he played a key role in shaping the city’s political landscape for years. Given served as the city attorney and was an adviser to Mayor Robert Pastrick from 1963 to 1973. However, his relationship with Pastrick eventually soured, leading him to align with the mayor’s political rival, N. Atterson Spann. This shift in allegiance made waves in the political circles of East Chicago, a city known for its intense and sometimes corrupt political climate.

Despite stepping away from official public office, Given continued to hold considerable sway in local politics. He was often referred to as East Chicago’s “midnight mayor,” a testament to his behind-the-scenes influence. His power extended beyond politics into legal affairs, with a high-profile law firm partnership cementing his status as a key player in the city.

The Events of May 15, 1981

On the evening of May 15, 1981, Jay Given attended a political fundraiser for N. Atterson Spann at the East Chicago Elks Club on Magoun Avenue. The event was a high-profile gathering, attended by approximately 400 people. Given, always active in political affairs, was seen engaging in conversations with various attendees throughout the night.

Shortly before his murder, Given won $300 in a raffle. Around 11:00 p.m., he exited the ballroom, possibly to leave for the night. Witnesses reported that he was involved in a heated discussion near the club’s entrance with a dark-haired man wearing a dark suit. Moments later, a single gunshot rang out.

Jay Given was shot in the back of the head at point-blank range. The bullet exited through his forehead, shattered a nearby glass door, and landed on the pavement outside. The shot was precise and executed in an assassination-style manner. Given collapsed immediately, and despite the crowd inside, no one came forward to identify the shooter.

The Investigation and Key Suspects

Given’s murder immediately sent shockwaves through East Chicago. Despite the large number of people at the event, law enforcement struggled to find anyone willing to come forward as an eyewitness. The police found a key piece of evidence at the crime scene—a shell casing from a rare .45-caliber Detonics pistol. This detail would later become crucial in the investigation.

Attention quickly turned to East Chicago Deputy Police Chief John Cardona. Investigators learned that Cardona owned a Detonics pistol, the same type of firearm used in the murder. Given and Cardona had a tense history, with conflicts surrounding local politics and law enforcement matters. The connection between Cardona and the murder weapon made him the prime suspect. However, the actual gun used in the shooting was never recovered, leaving authorities without enough evidence to charge him.

Adding to the mystery, Given’s role in political rivalries had earned him many enemies. His support of Spann against Pastrick may have put him in direct opposition to powerful figures who had a vested interest in maintaining control. Given’s shift in allegiance could have threatened certain individuals, leading to speculation that his murder was a political hit rather than a personal dispute.

Theories and Unanswered Questions

Several theories emerged over the years regarding Jay Given’s murder. Some believe it was a politically motivated assassination, orchestrated by individuals who saw him as a threat to their control over East Chicago’s political structure. The city’s history of corruption and strong-arm tactics fueled speculation that his murder was meant to send a message.

Others point to Given’s legal career and possible dealings with high-profile cases that could have made him a target. As a powerful attorney, he may have possessed information that some found dangerous. The possibility of organized crime involvement has also been suggested, given East Chicago’s long-standing ties to corrupt political and criminal elements.

One of the most baffling aspects of the case remains the silence of the witnesses. With over 400 people at the event, it seems unlikely that no one saw the shooter. Fear, loyalty, or political pressure may have played a role in keeping people quiet. This has made it difficult for law enforcement to make progress in solving the case.

The Legacy of the Case and Continued Pursuit of Justice

Decades later, the murder of Jay Given remains one of East Chicago’s most infamous unsolved cases. His family, particularly his son Jeffrey Given, has continued to push for justice, expressing frustration over the lack of progress in the investigation. In 1994, the case gained national attention when it was featured on the television show Unsolved Mysteries, but despite renewed interest, no arrests were made.

The lack of resolution in Given’s murder reflects broader issues within East Chicago’s political and law enforcement institutions. Whether due to fear, corruption, or the passage of time, the case remains in limbo, leaving many to wonder whether the full truth will ever come to light.

As of today, the murder of Jay Given remains an open case. Those who knew him and those who have followed the case continue to ask the same question: Who killed Jay Given, and why?